The creator takes viewers on a tour of Old Newgate Prison & Copper Mine in Connecticut. She begins by explaining its history, starting as a copper mine in the 1700s before being converted into the state's first prison. She then guides viewers down into the mine, describing the cold, dark, and historic atmosphere, before revealing that it has been transformed for October into a jack-o'-lantern experience called 'Light into the Dungeon.' The creator showcases the hundreds of carved pumpkins lighting up the tunnels, explores the above-ground ruins, and concludes by framing the location as a unique blend of history and Halloween, encouraging viewers to visit.
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Bored this weekend? Live in Connecticut and wondering what to do? 👀 You have to check out Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine in East Granby. It’s 75 feet underground, once a real 1700s prison, and this month it’s glowing with over 300 jack-o’-lanterns for Light Into the Dungeon. 🎃 It’s spooky, historic, and seriously one of the coolest fall experiences in the state! Location: Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine- Seasonal at 115 Newgate Road East Granby, CT 06026 #CTThingsToDo #OldNewGatePrison #LightIntoTheDungeon #HiddenGemsCT #ConnecticutFall
Transcript
I went 75 feet underground into Connecticut's first state prison, and it was one of the coolest, most surreal experiences I've ever had. Right here in East Granby sits Good Newgate Prison in Copper Mine, a place with a story unlike anywhere else in New England. It started as a copper mine in the early seventies, but by 1773, the state decided to turn it into an underground prison, believing no one could ever escape. Walking down the steep stairs, the temperature drops instantly. The air is good. The walls glisten, and you can still see the old cells carved straight into the rock. It's wild to imagine that people once lived down here in complete darkness. But this October, the darkness has been replaced by light, literally. The event is called light into the dungeon, a rank o'-lantern experience, and it transforms this historical site into something truly magical. More than 300 handcuff carved pumpkins line the tunnels, casting a warm orange glow on the same stone walls that once held prisoners over two hundred years ago. It's beautiful, haunting, and deeply moving all at once. Above ground, you can explore the stone ruins, read the self guided signs, and learn about the people who lived and worked here. This isn't a haunted house. It's a chance to connect with Connecticut's history in the most unique way possible. Tag someone in the comments who'd appreciate this blend of history and Halloween and add it to your Connecticut bucket list.
